Phlomis umbrosa
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Phlomis umbrosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 1
Where it is found
Forests, grassy slopes, streamsides, thickets and wet areas at elevations of 700 - 3200 metres in China.
E. Asia - northern China, Korea.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The root contains several medially active compounds and has been shown to exert a protective influence on the liver. It is used as a haemostatic in Korea and in treating tineapedis.
Haemostatic: Controls internal bleeding.
Hepatic: Acts on the liver (for better or worse!).
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a well-drained soil in full sun with shelter from cold winds. Plants are hardy to at least -5°c, probably more. A variable species, there are several sub-species.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. The seed germinates quickly, prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on for their first year in a greenhouse. Plant them out in early summer. Division of the tubers in spring or autumn. Be careful not to damage the tubers. If dividing in the autumn, it is best to store the tubers in a cool but frost-free place over the winter, planting them out in the spring. Spring divisions can be planted out straight away into their permanent positions.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist